Four men have recently had their appeals dismissed by the Court of Appeal regarding their involvement in a violent carjacking incident that occurred in Lautoka in 2016. Aselai Waqanivalu, Emosi Baleidrokadroka, Joeli Nukunawa, and Isaac James were convicted of two counts of aggravated robbery by the High Court in 2024.
According to court documents, the victims of the carjacking—who operated a business at the Lautoka market—were accosted while in their vehicle, a Toyota Prado, at around 7:20 PM one evening. The family, which included the victim, his wife, and their two children, had been stopped near a shop to purchase items for their children. Their vehicle contained bags full of clothing, a gold chain, over $16,000 in cash, and two smartphones. This cash was intended for deposit into the bank the following day, highlighting the serious implications of the crime on their livelihood.
After the High Court served sentences of seven years to Waqanivalu, nine years to Baleidrokadroka, eight years to James, and six years to Nukunawa for their roles in this violent crime, the individuals sought to appeal both their conviction and sentencing. However, their applications were denied on the basis that they did not satisfy the required criteria for an extension of time for their appeals. Justice Alipate Qetaki confirmed the court’s decision, stating that Nukunawa’s appeal had no prospect of success and dismissed James’s leave to appeal as well.
While there have been instances in Lautoka involving the reduction of sentences for other aggravated robbery cases—such as the recent release of three men after their sentences were deemed excessively harsh—the court maintained a firm stance in this case. This determination reinforces the legal system’s commitment to addressing violent crimes with the appropriate severity, reflecting a broader effort to ensure community safety.
The resolutions reached in these legal cases contribute to a hopeful narrative regarding the judicial system’s role in maintaining order and deterrence, while serving as a reminder of the essential need for justice and security in everyday life.
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